Mexico Automotive Production Hits Record 361,000 Units June

Mexico's automotive industry saw a strong rebound in June 2025, with production increasing 4.9% year-over-year to 361,047 units, marking the highest June output on record and pushing total production for the first half of the year to over 2 million units. Exports in June also rose 14% to 331,517 vehicles, mainly destined for the U.S. market, which accounted for nearly 80% of shipments, though cumulative exports for the first half of the year fell 2.8%. Key automakers like Toyota and Kia led production gains, with Toyota's output up 24.7% and Kia's by 24.3%, while other manufacturers such as Mazda and Audi experienced declines. Despite these gains, the industry remains cautious due to uncertainties surrounding U.S. trade policies under President Donald Trump. In contrast, Brazil's automotive sector faced a downturn in June, with production and sales dropping by around 5-6% compared to the previous year, although exports to Argentina surged by 75%, helping offset some domestic challenges. The Brazilian industry is contending with increased competition from imports, especially from China, and job cuts amid efforts to maintain competitiveness and protect local employment.